Skin Game Changer Rule Number 5: Downshift the Scrubs

Here's the new thinking when it comes to getting a clear, luminous complexion: Experts now say that you don't need a complicated routine, but you do need to adopt a few key habits. This week, we'll share one easy tweak per day to help you get you the skin you've always wanted.

Ever since microdermabrasion kits, gels, scrubs and home peels became popular a few years ago, derms have seen patients get hooked on exfoliators and their squeaky-clean results. But a too-frequent "E" fix creates a vicious cycle. "It ultimately makes skin drier and duller. Then you think, I've got to keep exfoliating," says Dr. Irwin. You actually need some dead surface cells to seal in moisture and protect against sun damage. Scrubbing daily removes the extra layers of protection before skin replenishes it, leaving cells exposed and allowing moisture to escape.

If your skin is oily, cut back to twice a week with a mild scrub or peel pad, Dr. Frank says. (Sensitive skin? Switch to a scrub with softer granules or a glycolic cleanser.) If you have dry skin, quit cold turkey, plug in a humidifier by your bed (skin loses most of its moisture at night), and try an old-school steam treatment twice a week to soften the dry top layer and help moisturizer penetrate. Fill the sink with hot water, hover over it for a few minutes with a towel over your head, then apply moisturizer or face oil to damp skin to make it gorgeously glowy.